In short
- Head to Kulen Mountain first to beat the 11:00 AM road closure.
- Visit Banteay Srei on your afternoon drive back toward Siem Reap.
- Expect to pay $50 to $80 USD for a private vehicle, or book a combined tour.
In this article
Combining a Phnom Kulen and Banteay Srei tour makes logistical sense. Kulen Mountain sits roughly 50 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap. Banteay Srei is located along the main road leading back to the city. By visiting the waterfall in the morning, you can seamlessly explore the ancient temple in the afternoon.
Why must I visit Kulen Mountain first?
You must go to Kulen Mountain first because the access road has strict traffic rules.
The road up the mountain is single-lane. It is only open for one-way uphill traffic before 11:00 AM. After 11:00 AM, the road switches to downhill traffic only. You must leave Siem Reap early enough to pass the mountain checkpoint before the morning cutoff.
What is the best itinerary for this day trip?
Start your drive from Siem Reap by 8:00 AM.
Arrive at Phnom Kulen National Park by 9:30 AM. Spend your morning viewing the 16th-century Reclining Buddha and the River of a Thousand Lingas. After exploring the temples, swim at the lower 15-meter waterfall. Eat lunch near the cascade, then drive down the mountain to Banteay Srei.
How much are the entrance fees?
Kulen Mountain costs $20 USD, while Banteay Srei requires an Angkor Pass.
The $20 USD Kulen ticket is a standalone fee for foreign adults. It is not included in the standard Angkor Pass. You must have a valid Angkor Pass to enter Banteay Srei. Cambodian citizens receive free entry to Kulen Mountain.
What are my transport options?
You can hire a private vehicle or join a guided tour.
Hiring a private taxi or minivan costs $50 to $80 USD for the vehicle. This gives you flexibility over your schedule. Alternatively, you can book a guided day trip. Tours cost between $35 and $60 USD per person and usually include transport and an English-speaking guide.
How long is the drive?
The drive from Siem Reap to Kulen Mountain takes 1.5 to 2 hours each way.
Banteay Srei is located on the route back to Siem Reap. Stopping there breaks up the return journey. You will spend about three hours driving in total throughout the day. The park is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
What should I wear for this combination?
Pack swimwear for the waterfall and modest clothing for the temples.
You must cover your shoulders and knees to enter Wat Preah Ang Thom at Kulen Mountain. The same modest dress code applies at Banteay Srei. Bring a dry change of clothes and a travel towel if you plan to swim in the natural pools.
Questions travellers ask
Can I swim at Kulen Waterfall?
Yes, you can swim in the natural pools at the lower cascade. Lockers and changing rooms are available near the waterfall. Exercise caution during the peak rainy season when currents are strong.
Is food available at Kulen Mountain?
Yes, there is a shaded picnic area near the waterfall. Local stalls sell fresh coconut juice and traditional grilled chicken. You can rent a raised wooden platform to eat your lunch.
Do tours include the Kulen entrance fee?
Some full-day tours include the $20 USD entrance fee, while others do not. Always check the inclusions of your specific booking. You must pay this fee in cash if buying it at the gate.
